When a trust is set up in Florida, the designated trustee is responsible for ensuring distributions are made in accordance with the wishes of the party or parties who established the trust. However, there may be times when a trustee acts in a way that appears...
Month: November 2018
Can I write my own will?
On the surface, will creation may seem like a simple process. That’s why many people in Florida wonder if they can’t just write their own wills, thereby saving money on legal costs. While there are resources available that can help you create your own...
Estate planning disputes are not restricted to the beneficiaries
When you think about disputes over estate planning, it is understandable to consider the type of arguments that can occur after you are gone, if your loved ones find reasons to dispute the terms of your will. However, as we at the , are...
Handling multiple assets when making an estate plan
When people in Florida are thinking about how to plan for the future and support their loved ones, they should know that different types of assets are treated differently under state law. People can consider these groups of assets separately when drawing up an estate...
How can I choose an executor for my estate?
The executor of your estate will be responsible for many essential duties after you’re gone. From settling outstanding debts to ensuring your heirs receive your assets, the duties of an executor are often quite complex. That’s why picking the right...
What is the federal estate tax?
When you create your estate plan in Florida, you have to prepare for everything. This not only includes ensuring all your assets are accounted for but also that you plan ahead for what happens after you die when it comes to taxes. While the state may assess estate...
What is the cy-pres doctrine?
If you are the executor of an estate, you may be responsible for ensuring the terms of the trusts and wills are carried out according to the deceased’s wishes. When a trust is dissolved, the money and/or property is transferred to the beneficiary designated in...
Estate planning with illiquid assets
When Florida residents create an estate plan, they may wonder what to do about so-called "illiquid" or "hard" assets such as art and jewelry. There may be complex issues around assessing their value as well as deciding who should get them and how. It may have been a...
Who is allowed to challenge a will?
Wills are useful estate planning tools that enable you to leave assets to loved ones after you’re gone. These documents can be challenged in court, which is a common occurrence among many families despite the value of assets or property being dispersed....
The subtle differences of irrevocable trusts
Irrevocable trusts are a popular way for Florida families to transfer wealth to their heirs while minimizing tax burdens. There are, however, many nuances in the way these trusts can be constructed that change how money flows from grantors to beneficiaries. Laws that...
